Lagos Orphanage Receives Donation From Abia University Alumni
The Abia State University Alumni Association, Lagos Chapter (also known as LasLegend), has donated food items and household goods to the Bales of Mercy Orphanage Home in Bariga, Lagos, as part of its end-of-year activities.
Led by the association’s president, Mrs. Hilda Nkor, the group visited the orphanage on Saturday to carry out the donation, which is part of their ongoing efforts to give back to society. The donated items included a bag of drinks, toiletries, rice, staple foods, and other essentials.
In an interview with PUNCH Metro after the donation, Nkor shared that the alumni members interacted with the children during their visit and were impressed by their intelligence. She noted that the children were excited to receive the group, and the experience was humbling for the alumni.
“We have a tradition in our association of giving back to society and showing love where it matters most,” Nkor explained. “Christmas is a season where we celebrate the greatest love of all—the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, who came to die for our sins. He commanded us to love one another, and that is the driving force behind this visit. We’ve done similar activities in the past, but with other organizations.”
“The presentation went very well,” she continued. “The children were thrilled to have us. We interacted with them and found many to be very intelligent. It was a humbling experience for us, seeing how happy and content they were despite having so little.”
Nkor emphasized that caring for the less privileged should be a shared responsibility. The group also urged the Federal Government to allocate more funding to orphanages caring for vulnerable children nationwide, suggesting that this would allow orphanage staff to focus more on the children’s care and development.
“The government, as far as I know, has set up welfare offices across the country,” Nkor said. “They regulate orphanage activities and sometimes offer support. However, I believe more can be done. There is a need for greater awareness of orphanages and old people’s homes, along with guidance for the public on how to engage with them. The government should also consider providing more funding so administrators can concentrate on the care and development of the children.”
Ngozi Enyi-Igbokwe, the founder of Bales of Mercy Orphanage, expressed her gratitude to the alumni for their visit; “We want to thank them for their time, their kind gesture, and their generous donations and prayers,” Enyi-Igbokwe said. “It was a highly commendable act, and we sincerely appreciate their visit.”
- Published in Donation
“Essential Contributions: What You Can Donate to Orphanages in Nigeria”
Orphanages in Nigeria face a variety of challenges, with the most pressing needs often being food, shelter, clothing, and education. These children are deprived of parental care, making them especially vulnerable to life’s hardships. While some orphanages operate in rented or temporary facilities, it is crucial that these children are provided with the basics that can help them thrive. By contributing to these homes, you can play a pivotal role in shaping their futures and ensuring they grow in an environment of love and care. Here are the key categories of support you can offer to orphanages across Nigeria:
Food and Shelter:
The foundational needs of any child are food, shelter, and clothing, and this is especially true for orphans. Many orphanages in Nigeria, particularly those operating on tight budgets, struggle to meet these basic necessities. Children need a safe, secure environment, as well as nutritious meals to grow strong and healthy.
Some of the most common food items that orphanages require include:
- Garri: A staple food, versatile and filling.
- Rice: A core component of many Nigerian meals.
- Beans: An affordable and protein-packed food.
- Noodles, Spaghetti, Macaroni: Easy-to-prepare meals that can feed many.
- Palm Oil and Groundnut Oil: Essential cooking oils for preparing traditional dishes.
- Toiletries: Items like soap, toilet paper, and disinfectants are essential for maintaining hygiene.
Additionally, providing cooking utensils like pots, pans, plates, and spoons can be incredibly useful as many orphanages lack the resources to equip their kitchens properly. These basic contributions will go a long way in ensuring the children’s well-being.
Educational Materials:
While meeting the physical needs of orphans is essential, their intellectual development is equally important. Education opens doors and provides the tools to break the cycle of poverty. Many orphanages lack the funds to provide adequate schooling or materials. By sponsoring children’s education, you can help equip them with the knowledge and skills needed for a better future.
Some of the educational materials that can be donated include:
- Books: Textbooks, storybooks, and educational literature are crucial.
- Writing Materials: Pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks, and other stationery are essential for the children’s learning process.
- Electronic Learning Tools: If you are able to, consider donating TVs, computers, or tablets. These can be used to access educational videos, online learning programs, or digital textbooks.
Moreover, offering to sponsor school fees is a highly impactful way to contribute. Given the number of children in orphanages, you can choose to sponsor a specific child or group of children, either for a particular year or throughout their schooling.
First-Aid Materials:
Children in orphanages are more prone to accidents and illnesses. Access to basic medical supplies and first-aid kits is critical. These supplies help in the event of minor injuries or illnesses and ensure that the children’s health is prioritized.
Essential items for a first-aid kit include:
- Bandages, Plasters, and Antiseptics for treating cuts and scrapes.
- Thermometers, Gloves, and Surgical Masks for hygiene and proper medical handling.
- Pain Relief Medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, in case of fever or mild pain.
Beyond the first-aid kits, it’s also helpful to donate medical equipment like thermometers or even emergency response kits that could support the orphanage in urgent situations. Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and having the proper resources on hand can make a huge difference.
Hygiene Products:
Maintaining good hygiene is vital for the health of the children in orphanages. Without sufficient access to personal care products, children can easily develop skin conditions, infections, and other health problems. Donating hygiene essentials can make a significant impact on their lives.
Items that can be donated include:
- Body creams, lotions, and oils: To keep the children’s skin moisturized.
- Shampoo, soap, bath gels, diapers, pad and toothbrushes: Necessary for daily hygiene routines.
- Toothpaste and combs: These are basic but crucial items for oral and hair care.
In addition to hygiene products, providing bedding items like mattresses, blankets, pillows, and linens is another great way to improve the living conditions of the children. Many orphanages struggle with having enough clean and comfortable bedding for all the children.
Other Useful Donations:
In addition to the categories mentioned, there are other items that can significantly improve the quality of life for orphans in Nigeria. These include:
- Clothing: New or gently used clothes, shoes, and school uniforms can be a great help.
- Toys and Recreational Equipment: Orphans, like all children, need playtime to stimulate their creativity and provide emotional relief. Donating toys, sports equipment, or educational games can be both enjoyable and enriching for them.
- Household Items: Kitchenware, furniture, and even things like fans or heaters can enhance the comfort of the orphanage environment.
In Conclusion:
Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment. Orphans, however, face the additional challenge of being without the care of their biological parents. By contributing to their needs, we help give them a chance at a brighter future. Providing essentials like food, shelter, educational resources, medical supplies, and hygiene products ensures that these children can not only survive but thrive. The support from kind-hearted individuals like you makes it possible for orphanages to continue their invaluable work. Your donations, no matter how big or small, can have a lasting impact on these children’s lives, giving them the hope and opportunity they deserve to become contributing members of society.
- Published in General
Davido Opens Up About His Father’s Role in Shaping His Annual Orphanage Donations.
Nigerian music sensation, David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, recently revealed how his father has impacted his annual charity donations to orphanages. During an interview on The Morning Hustle podcast on Tuesday, Davido shared a significant moment from 2021 when he posted his bank details on Twitter to mark his birthday.
“I casually tweeted my account number on my birthday, and my fans ended up sending me almost $400,000. I was unsure about what to do with the money,” he recalled.
Davido explained that his father soon caught wind of the situation and urged him to rethink how he should handle the funds. “My dad called and said, ‘You know you can’t keep that money, right?’ I was shocked and replied, ‘What do you mean I can’t keep my money? It’s mine.'”
After that conversation, Davido decided to donate the entire sum to orphanages. “I gave it all to motherless babies’ homes. We continued with this tradition for the next two years. The first year, it was all from donations, and the next year, I added my own money. I also contributed my own funds this year.”
He further explained, “This has been a yearly event through my foundation, and we hope it will expand. There are about 500 orphanages across the country, and I’ve met people who’ve told me they were direct beneficiaries. It’s heartwarming to know that all those people are praying for me.”
According to PUNCH Online, in November 2021, Davido donated ₦251 million to 292 orphanages as part of his 29th birthday celebration. He raised ₦201 million from fans who sent small contributions, and added ₦50 million from his personal funds.
In July 2023, the artist made another contribution, donating ₦237 million to over 400 orphanages across Nigeria. In February 2024, he announced a ₦300 million donation for orphanages throughout the country and marked his 32nd birthday on November 21 with a similar donation. The latest donation also supported a charity dedicated to tackling drug abuse among youth in Nigeria.
- Published in General
UBA Uganda Donates to Hope for AIDS Orphans to Spread Festive Cheer
United Bank for Africa (UBA) Uganda, through its UBA Foundation’s Food Bank initiative, recently visited Hope for AIDS Orphans Uganda to bring joy, love, and support as part of the festive celebrations.
The UBA team, led by Shamim Nambuusi (Head of Legal), Hoziana Niyonsaba Ssemanda (Head of Marketing), and Jonathan Sunday (Regional Head Upcountry), was warmly welcomed by Daniel Mwebaze, the Director of Hope for AIDS Orphans Uganda.
During the visit, UBA Uganda made a generous donation of essential items to assist the orphanage, which cares for over 150 children affected by or living with HIV. The donation, which included critical daily necessities, was particularly timely during the holiday season, as Mwebaze expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support.
He emphasized that the food supplies would be especially valuable as the children celebrate the festive season, offering a much-needed boost to their well-being.
In her address, Shamim underscored the importance of giving children hope, particularly those living with HIV or facing the hardships of losing their parents. “This gesture is a way to show these children that they are valued, that their future holds promise, and that they are surrounded by love,” she said.
Hoziana also praised the orphanage’s efforts in caring for the children and supporting the wider community. She commended Mwebaze’s commitment to the children’s welfare and encouraged him to continue his meaningful work.
“Children are a precious gift, and their well-being should always be our top priority,” she stated. “At UBA, we believe in investing in the future of these young ones, as they are tomorrow’s leaders and bankers. This is why we dedicate resources to programs that bring gifts, joy, and encouragement to them.”
Jonathan Sunday highlighted the importance of investing in the future of children. “Supporting and nurturing these children is not only a responsibility but an investment in their bright futures,” he explained.
The visit was filled with touching moments, as the UBA team and the children enjoyed shared dances, laughter, and a sense of community and togetherness.
- Published in General
Governor Yusuf Adopts 95 Orphans in Kano to Mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.
On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State made a remarkable gesture by adopting 95 orphans in the state. The adoption was part of the Independence Day celebrations in Kano.
This generous act was showcased during a special lunch with the orphans, all of whom have been residing at the state-run orphanage since the loss of their parents. A statement, signed by the Governor’s spokesperson, Mr. Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirmed Governor Yusuf’s pledge to support the orphans’ well-being.
“I am pleased to announce that we will now fully take responsibility for the 95 children here. This includes providing for their education, healthcare, nourishment, and other social needs from primary school through to university throughout my term,” said the Governor.
He further reassured the children that they would be treated with the highest regard and would have access to all necessary resources to help them thrive during his administration. Governor Yusuf stressed the importance of helping the children achieve their full potential.
This initiative is historic, as it marks the first time in the 54-year existence of the orphanage that such an extensive effort has been made for its residents. The Governor spent time interacting with the children, offering encouragement and reassurance.
“You are now like my own children, and I will care for you as such. You will soon begin to experience the positive aspects of life, in sha Allah,” he assured them.
In addition to his adoption commitment, Governor Yusuf also donated food items worth millions of naira to enhance the welfare and ensure the well-being of the orphans.
- Published in General
Ogun State Revokes Licenses of 20 Private Orphanages.
The Ogun State Government has withdrawn the provisional licenses of 20 private orphanages in the state for failing to comply with regulations aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.
This announcement was made by the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, on Friday during a meeting with orphanage operators at the ministry’s conference room in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital.
Adeleye expressed concern over the practices of certain orphanage operators, emphasizing that the state would not tolerate illegal activities such as child trafficking, wrongful adoptions, or the mistreatment of children. She stressed the importance of orphanages being run with compassion, focused on empowering and caring for vulnerable children, and maintaining their safety.
The commissioner highlighted the administration’s commitment to protecting children’s welfare and preventing any form of exploitation. She urged the orphanage operators to follow the established guidelines closely.
Adeleye further explained that the purpose of operating an orphanage is to contribute positively to society through humanitarian services. She warned that anyone found guilty of neglecting their responsibilities would face legal consequences.
In addition, the ministry has implemented a more rigorous data collection system to track the number of children admitted to orphanages, ensuring that all records are accurately maintained.
“The state government’s actions are meant to safeguard vulnerable children and preserve the integrity of orphanage services,” the commissioner stated. “While not all of the affected 20 orphanages were involved in unethical practices, such as failing to follow adoption protocols, we have decided to revoke their provisional licenses. Our aim is to conduct a thorough investigation and confirm that they are adhering to regulations.”
Adeleye also mentioned that these orphanages could reapply after one month, and she reiterated that those with permanent licenses had been provided with additional guidelines to ensure standards are upheld.
Adejumoke Adewole, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, added that the ministry would continue its unscheduled inspections of orphanages across the state to monitor compliance and evaluate operational standards.
In response, Adeyemo Anthony, a representative of the private orphanage owners, praised the state for its efforts in monitoring orphanages and pledged their commitment to cooperating with the government to ensure the well-being of the children under their care.
- Published in News
Smallgiant Donates N400,000 Relief to Lagos Orphanage and Community.
As Nigerians continue to face challenges in accessing food and other essentials, Smallgiant, an international advertising company, has stepped in to provide significant support to Little Saints Orphanage in Abule-Egba, Lagos, and the surrounding community, helping to ease hunger and hardship.
In line with its commitment to community development and corporate social responsibility (CSR), Smallgiant donated food items and essential goods valued at over N400,000. This initiative aims to alleviate hunger and assist vulnerable groups in the area.
The donation, which took place on Sunday, October 13th, 2024 brought much-needed relief to the densely populated neighborhood, where most residents are grappling with growing economic difficulties. The company distributed a variety of goods, including noodles, macaroni, bags of rice, garri, spaghetti, seasonings, toothbrushes, toothpaste, detergents, and bar soaps, to meet the basic needs of the community.
A particularly notable aspect of the donation was the company’s support for Little Saints Orphanage, providing a large supply of foodstuffs and necessities for the children under its custody. The orphanage, which has been providing shelter and education to orphaned and abandoned children for over 20 years, expressed its heartfelt gratitude to Smallgiant for the donation.
At the event, Mrs. Olawumi Shodiya, the Team Lead of Smallgiant, laid more emphasis on the company’s dedication to uplifting local communities and tackling the growing issue of food in Nigeria.
“We understand the importance of giving back, especially to society’s most vulnerable. Our donation to Little Saints Orphanage is part of our efforts to help these children build a brighter future. We also encourage other organizations to join in making a difference, as every bit counts,” Shodiya remarked.
“Hunger remains a serious issue nationwide, and we are committed to doing our part to alleviate it. Today’s donation focuses on those who are hardest hit, particularly vulnerable children in orphanages like Little Saints,” she added.
Mrs. Kemi Bola Oyediran, Smallgiant’s Hiring Manager, echoed Shodiya’s sentiments, acknowledging the essential role that orphanages play in society. She reaffirmed the company’s ongoing support for these institutions in their mission to care for vulnerable children.
She also mentioned that Smallgiant, an international advertising company that has recently expanded into the African market, is actively seeking eligible Nigerians for employment opportunities, particularly for those willing to work online despite the current economic climate.
One of the beneficiaries of the community distribution, Mrs. Bolanle Yusuf, a local trader at Ekoro Junction, shared her gratitude for the donation.
“Things have been difficult, and the food package I received has been a great help to my family. We are incredibly grateful for this timely support,” she said.
Mrs. Juliet Abiodun, Assistant Administrator at Little Saints Orphanage, also expressed heartfelt thanks to Smallgiant for their generosity, noting that the donation reflected the biblical call to care for the poor and needy.
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done,” Abiodun quoted, praising Smallgiant for embodying this principle through their actions.
Abiodun further urged other corporate organizations and individuals to follow Smallgiant’s footstep, highlighting the significance of consistent contributions to ensure the well-being and future of vulnerable children in orphanages.
- Published in Donation
Davido pledges N300m to support orphanages, fight drug abuse
Nigerian music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has announced plans to mark his birthday this year with a donation of ₦300 million to orphanages and a charity dedicated to combating drug abuse and addiction among young people.
The singer shared the news on Monday via X, writing, “Once again, my birthday this year, we are donating to orphanages and a charity that helps young people stay away from drug abuse and addiction. This year, it’s ₦300m. Details to follow soon.”
This gesture continues Davido’s tradition of giving back to society during his birthday celebrations.
It is not the first time the artist has supported foster homes in Nigeria.Related News
In February, Davido announced a ₦300 million donation to orphanages across the country.
Similarly, in November 2021, PUNCH Online reported that Davido donated ₦250 million to 292 orphanages in commemoration of his 29th birthday.
In July 2023, the musician also donated ₦237 million to over 400 orphanages in Nigeria.
Treasure Orphanage – Empowering Young Minds.
- Published in Donation
Empowering Young Minds at Treasure Orphanage: Vocational Training for a Brighter Future
In a world where education is often seen as a key to unlocking potential, the Treasure Orphanage Foundation believes in providing more than just traditional schooling. We recognize the importance of equipping young minds with practical skills that will prepare them for self-sufficiency, build confidence, and open doors to opportunities they might not have otherwise. Our vocational training program is a vital step towards achieving this mission.
The Power of Education Beyond the Classroom
Education is a lifelong journey of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, beliefs, and habits. It is the tool that can uplift lives, shape character, and fuel aspirations. But at Treasure Orphanage, we also understand that true empowerment goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. We believe in holistic education that encompasses vocational skills, nurturing both the minds and hands of our youth to prepare them for real-world challenges.
Vocational training fills this gap by offering hands-on experiences that can ignite new interests, develop problem-solving skills, and create a sense of self-worth. We encourage our children to discover and hone their talents, whether in arts, crafts, technology, or entrepreneurship.
About Treasure Orphanage Foundation
Founded on a commitment to the welfare and growth of orphans, the Treasure Orphanage Foundation has become a sanctuary for vulnerable children. Over the years, we have provided a safe haven filled with love, care, and security. At our core, we strive to offer every child the resources and environment they need to thrive, both mentally and physically. Our approach goes beyond simply meeting basic needs; we invest in their future by fostering a holistic atmosphere that nurtures each child’s potential.
The children under our care are given the opportunity to grow in a supportive, family-like environment, where they learn resilience, empathy, and the power of hope. Our programs include not only academic tutoring but also life skills development, ensuring that each child can confidently pursue their dreams.
Vocational Training: Bridging the Gap
The vocational training program at Treasure Orphanage Foundation was established to address the need for practical, life-enriching skills. We offer training in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, cooking, computer literacy, and small-scale entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to cater to the interests of our children, providing them with the tools and techniques to create, repair, and innovate.
Our goal is to give them options beyond conventional education, empowering them with skills that can become sources of income and independence. Whether a child dreams of becoming a chef, a fashion designer, or a tech innovator, our vocational training provides a foundation upon which they can build a fulfilling career.
Benefits of Vocational Training at Treasure Orphanage
- Skill Development: Each child receives hands-on training in their chosen area, developing practical abilities that can open doors to jobs or self-employment.
- Increased Confidence: Mastering a skill instills confidence and a sense of accomplishment, essential for personal development.
- Future Employment: With vocational skills, our children have better chances of securing jobs or starting businesses, helping them achieve financial stability.
- Sense of Purpose: Our program fosters a sense of purpose and independence, enabling our children to see themselves as valuable, contributing members of society.
- Community Impact: As these young individuals grow into skilled adults, they have the potential to give back, positively impacting their communities.
Looking Towards the Future
Our dream at Treasure Orphanage Foundation is to continue expanding our vocational training programs, introducing new trades and skills as we grow. We believe that every child deserves the chance to develop talents and pursue passions that can transform their lives. By supporting this initiative, you are investing in the future of these children, empowering them to rise above their circumstances and realize their full potential.
Davido pledges N300m to support orphanages, fight drug abuse
Join Us in This Journey
Treasure Orphanage Foundation invites you to be a part of this journey. Whether through donations, volunteer efforts, or spreading the word, your support can help us give these children a future filled with hope, independence, and success. Together, we can create a world where every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
- Published in Events